Boykin Spaniel

Breed Origin

The origins of the Boykin Spaniel date back to the early 1900s in the United States. In South Carolina, hunters were in search of a versatile dog that could retrieve both upland game and waterfowl. One day, Alexander White from Spartanburg encountered a small, brown stray dog near a church, which he affectionately named Dumpy due to its short and stocky build. Mr. White later gifted Dumpy to his friend L. Whitaker Boykin, who lived in Camden. Shortly thereafter, another dog resembling Dumpy was found and bred with him. Initially thought to be a mix of several breeds, including the American Water Spaniel, Springer Spaniel, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and Pointer, this little brown dog was selectively bred over the years on Boykin’s Pine Grove plantation. Whit Boykin's goal was to develop a distinctive hunting dog capable of effectively pursuing wild turkeys and ducks in the Wateree River swamp. The ideal dog would be compact enough to be lifted into a boat with the game it retrieved, have a friendly temperament, and be adept at navigating through water and marshes, while also being a loving family companion. “Mr. Boykin’s Spaniels” gained traction in South Carolina before World War II and saw a surge in popularity beyond the state after the war. However, the increasing demand for the breed led to a decline in breeding standards, which adversely affected the dogs' health. In 1977, Boykin's relatives joined forces with Dr. Peter McKoy, a local veterinarian, to form The Boykin Spaniel Society, dedicated to preserving the breed's standards. Since the breed was developed by South Carolinians for their community, it was only fitting that in 1985, the Boykin Spaniel was named South Carolina's state dog. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 2009.

Care Routine

To prevent the long hair of a Boykin Spaniel from becoming tangled, consistent brushing is crucial for their wavy coat. It is recommended to brush them once or twice a week, especially in the spring when shedding increases. An occasional bath will help keep them clean and odor-free. However, if you notice an unusual smell coming from your Boykin’s ears, it could indicate an ear infection. To reduce the risk of such infections, clean your Spaniel’s ears weekly with an appropriate ear cleaner, particularly after swimming, bathing, or any water-related activities. Regular nail trimming is also necessary to prevent cracking or splitting, and it’s advisable to brush your Spaniel’s teeth twice a week. Boykin Spaniels are an active breed that needs plenty of daily exercise; without it, they may develop destructive behaviors. Although they have been bred as outdoor dogs, they can adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive enough exercise to prevent boredom. Due to their tendency to suffer from skin allergies, it’s important to provide them with high-quality food formulated for medium-sized dogs, with an average daily intake of around two cups.

Play & Exercise